Travel in Peru: What to See in Tumbes

If you're thinking of visiting Peru, but looking to avoid crowds of tourists, consider Tumbes. Tumbes offers some of the most beautiful beaches in Peru, while its interior is filled with luxurious vegetation. Other than a few breezy winter afternoons, the climate is warm and comfortable all year. Because of its inviting climate, it's a great choice for visitors who aren't able to choose their vacation time during South America's summer.

Located only 30 kilometers from the border with Ecuador, Tumbes is the smallest of Peru's departamentos or regions. Despite its small size, it has vast amounts of protected lands -- a full one-third of the region is dedicated to preservation. Arriving in Tumbes by land is a beautiful experience for the eyes: Each kilometer of the PanAmerican highway reveals more of the coastal desert and its ever-changing serpentine dunes. The trip from Lima is about 16 to 20 hours by bus, although if you're time-challenged, you can easily fly in.

In the city of Tumbes, you'll want to see the Plaza de Armas. It's a tranquil spot, located close enough to the beach that you can feel the ocean breezes. Watch out though, for the matacojudos -- giant fruits that hang from trees around the Plaza. If you're unlucky, you may be hit in the head by falling fruit! While you're in the city, you may also want to visit the Cathedral of St. Nicolas of Tolentino to see the wooden Baroque altar and beautiful stained glass.

However, the real beauty begins when you get outside of the city. About 13 kilometers from the city of Tumbes, you'll find Puerto Pizarro, where you can access some of the area's most prized natural treasures: The Manglares of Tumbes, the Isla de Amor and the Isla de los Pajaros. The best way to visit these sites is by water, and there are friendly boatsmen available to show you around. An all-day group tour of the area will only cost about $15 per person.

Manglares de Tumbes: The Manglares is a mangrove swamp, similar to the Everglades in the United States. It's home to more than 200 species of birds and also to several rare and endangered animal species, including the crab-eating raccoon. It's most recommended to visit the Manglares between May and December.

Isla de Amor: Located at the front of Puerto Pizarro, this peaceful little spot is very popular as a honeymoon destination. It's also a popular camping spot in summer, offering tranquil waters, a Caribbean ambiance and rustic restaurants that are perfect for enjoying a meal of famous black conchas (mussels) and a cerveza.

Isla de los Pajaros: Considered one of the prettiest of the little islands, as the name suggests, it's home to thousands of birds who come to roost when the tide rises. If you enjoy bird-watching, you'll be able to catch site of boobies, frigates, egrets and cormorants, among others. It's unforgivable to forget your camera -- and also unforgivable to cause a ruckus and startle the birds.

Tumbes is the perfect vacation spot for nature lovers who are looking for some of Peru's lesser known natural jewels. It's well-worth the trouble to escape to this northern tip of Peru where you can get to know its beautiful land and friendly people.